Lesson Plan
Warning Signs Workshop
Equip school counselors to identify early warning signs of student distress and practice trauma-informed de-escalation strategies through guided scenarios.
Early recognition and intervention can prevent crises and foster a safer, more supportive school climate. Counselors will leave ready to spot signals and apply practical de-escalation techniques.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Set Up Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction
5 minutes
Step 2
Mini-Lecture on Early Warning Signs
10 minutes
Step 3
Role-Play Scenarios
15 minutes
Step 4
Group Debrief
5 minutes
Step 5
Assessment & Closing
5 minutes
Slide Deck
Early Signals of Student Distress
Agenda
What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Why Early Signals Matter
Categories of Warning Signs
Physical Warning Signs
Emotional Warning Signs
Behavioral Warning Signs
Case Example
Discussion Prompt
Key Takeaways
Next Steps & Resources
Script
Activity
Game
